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Luxman L-595A Special Edition
The new Luxman L-595A Special Edition is a premium Class A integrated amplifier built to commemorate Luxman's 95th anniversary. The unique industrial design reimagines the highly regarded L-570 series inaugurated in 1989. "Not many consumer electronics companies can point to a 95-year heritage. The Luxman L-595ASE validates our ongoing commitment to sonic excellence, superb build quality, and timeless design." - said Jeff Sigmund, president of Luxman America.
The Luxman L-595A Special Edition combines advanced technology and a massive physical presence. Luxman enthusiasts will note that, unlike recent Luxman amplifiers, the new model deletes front panel VU meters. Instead of a rotary input selector, the amplifier features an array of aluminum-clad direct selection switchgear, each with an annunciator LED. The Luxman aluminum front panel is accented by a black Alumite lower section, creating an elegant, two-tone scheme reminiscent of the original L-570 series. The calibrated volume control features a bold counterbore and indicator light. Both the front and top panels also feature Luxman's signature hairline finish.
When Class B transistor amplifiers rose to prominence in the 1960s and 70s, Luxman engineers were quick to recognize the pitfalls of related switching distortion. Audiophiles know this distortion occurs when output transistors responsible for one half of a musical waveform switch off and others are switched on to handle the other waveform half. Because this distortion occurs at the "crossover" transition between the top and bottom of all waveforms, it's particularly troublesome, becoming more prominent during quiet musical passages. True to its heritage, the L-595A Special Edition eliminates the problem with Pure Class A amplification, available up to its rated power into 8 Ohm loads. During Class A operation, the output transistors operate all the time - no duty cycle switching on and off. The result is music reproduction of stunning textural clarity.
Negative feedback is an extremely powerful tool in analog circuit design. But even minuscule inaccuracies in the application of feedback can compromise the expressive power of music reproduction. For this reason, Luxman incorporates the most advanced version of our Only Distortion Negative Feedback (ultimate) - ODNF-u - circuit, with improved error detection. During operation and with low-level signals, traditional rotary resistive type volume controls often introduce noise. In addition, resistance tracking errors can unintentionally shift the left/right stereo balance with volume adjustments. For these reasons, Luxman has long avoided these types in favor of carefully crafted attenuator circuits.
The L-595ASE incorporates the Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Attenuator, LECUA1000, first used in the range-topping C-900u control amplifier. This computerized precision attenuator delivers meticulous volume adjustment across 88 steps while minimizing distortion. In place of a conventional serial number, a back-panel plate identifies the amplifier as the 95th Anniversary limited offering and cites the three-digit serial number as "### of 300". With just 100 units allocated to North America, the suggested retail price of the L-595ASE is $11,995. Info and photos by Luxman.